Everything you need to know about the 2024 Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire

Pennsylvania’s largest annual celebration of Renaissance arts, medieval sports, and fantasy transports festivalgoers back to 16th-century England for a weekend of immersive fun.

Held on Saturdays and Sundays at the Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Lancaster County, the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is, for many, a must-do autumn tradition in the region, marking the end of summer and the beginning of fall. The faire is more akin to live theater in a historical setting than a mere cultural festival.

This year, visitors will be transported to late-1580s England, as the Royal Navy secures victory against the Spanish Armada. Flush with the spoils of war, Queen Elizabeth plans to share her riches with the commoners of the Shire of Mount Hope.

In a lighthearted nod to Game of Thrones, the “Tournament of Guilds” will determine which of the five great factions will receive the Queen’s favor. Festivalgoers are encouraged to wear the colors of their chosen guild and earn points throughout their visit to bring their guild closer to victory.

The Guilds of the Shire of Mount Hope:

Dozens of cast members bring the experience to life as festivalgoers venture along paths, watch jousting and sword fighting, hear bawdy performances, and join family-friendly sing-alongs.

The Royal Kitchens will serve a feast of giant turkey legs and modern American fare, while the Shire Pourhouses will offer Mount Hope beers, wines, and cocktails. Premium experiences, like the Faire Day Pub Crawls or educational beer tastings, require an additional ticket.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire.

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire operates on Saturdays and Sundays from Aug. 17 to Oct. 27. It opens from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. each weekend, with merchants closing at 7 p.m.

📍2775 Lebanon Rd., Manheim, Pa. 17545, 🕒 Aug. 17-Oct. 27, Saturdays & Sundays from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., 📞 717-665-7021, 🌐 parenfaire.com

Each week, schedules for the forthcoming weekend of the Renaissance Faire are released on parenfaire.com/faire, called “Daily Writs.”

Tickets to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire are available exclusively online — there is no in-person box office. Be advised: Tickets sell out quickly, especially toward the end of the season. Purchase tickets at parenfaire.com/buytickets.

Through Sept. 15, general admission is $33.95 for ages 12 and up, with children’s tickets priced at $17.95. From Sept. 21 through Oct. 27, general admission rises to $37.95, with children’s tickets at $19.95. Children 4 and under enter for free.

To snag cheaper tickets, check the website on Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. for the “Sunset Ticket,” which allows entry at 4 p.m. for more than 20 performances. Sunset Tickets range from $19.95 to $23.95 for adults and $7.95 to $9.95 for children ages 5-11, depending on the selected dates.

Dogs are welcome at the faire with a Royal Hound ticket, with proof of veterinary care and vaccinations. A registration form and waiver, along with a photo, must be submitted before visiting. No other animals are permitted, except service dogs.

Themed weekends offer adult and children’s costume contests, treasure hunts, and events like Oktoberfest and trick-or-treating in the Shire.